SpiceJet receives its first Boeing 737 MAX 8

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Seattle - SpiceJet has received its first of 205 Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft on order. Besides the expansion, the Indian low-cost operator aims to standardize its fleet with the Boeing's re-engineered single-aisle.

The current fleet of SpiceJet consists of 35 Boeing 737 (28 737-800, four 737-900ER, three 737-700). The new 737 MAX 8 is about 20 percent more fuel efficient than its predecessor, which was introduced to the civil aviation market twenty years ago. The airline supposes fuel costs to be reduced by $1.5 million a year per aircraft. The CO2 emissions are also lower, and the plane is considerably quieter.

SpiceJet offers broadband internet connection onboard the Boeing 737 MAX, which is a novelty in India according to the airline.

The introduction of the first 737 MAX is a major milestone in the history of SpiceJet

, said managing director Ajay Singh.

The flight range of the aircraft also enables the Indian budget carrier to open new routes.

The company plans to deploy its 737 MAX both on domestic and international routes. The aircraft will make its international commercial debut with the upcoming Delhi-Hong Kong route that will be launched on November 22.